Hanwha Wins First U.S. Navy Subcontract For Next-Generation Logistics Ship Program

Hanwha Defense USA and Hanwha Philly Shipyard have been awarded their first U.S. Navy project as a subcontractor to Vard Marine US, Inc. under the Next Generation Logistics Ship (NGLS) program, also known as the light replenishment oiler (T-AOL).

The companies confirmed the development on Monday, marking Hanwha’s first involvement in a U.S. Navy contract since entering the American shipbuilding sector.

The project involves early-stage work on a new class of logistics vessels that will be used for refueling, rearming and resupplying naval ships.

These vessels are being planned as smaller and more flexible platforms that can support operations both at sea and closer to shore.

This is the first U.S. Navy contract awarded to Hanwha Defense USA since the company was set up and since Hanwha acquired the Philly Shipyard in December 2024.

Following the acquisition, Hanwha invested more than $200 million to improve the shipyard’s workforce, production capacity and overall capabilities.

Under the subcontract, Hanwha will work with Vard Marine US on conducting a market survey and developing the initial concept design for the NGLS platform.

The scope also includes refining the design, supporting manufacturability and applying commercial construction practices, along with evaluating production costs. The contract further includes options for functional design planning and special studies.

The NGLS vessels are expected to use commercially available and proven technologies instead of new or untested systems.

The aim is to keep costs under control while ensuring the ships can meet operational needs. These vessels will be designed to provide sustained refueling, resupply and rearming support, either at sea or in shore-based scenarios.

Hanwha stated that the project is an important step in using its shipbuilding experience for U.S. Navy requirements, particularly in supporting operations in challenging maritime regions.

Vard Marine US also said it will continue working with the U.S. Navy to develop a design that improves replenishment capabilities while keeping it cost-effective and operationally efficient.

Hanwha Group, a South Korean company, is one of several international firms that have committed to investing in U.S. maritime production

Reference: hanwhadefenseusa